Toothache is one of the annoying problems that many people experience at different times of their lives. This pain can be caused by tooth decay, gingivitis, oral infections or even pressure from orthodontic treatments. In such a situation, it is necessary to see a dentist to find the root cause and choose the treatment method. However, until the root of the problem is fixed, doctors may prescribe drugs such as naproxen tablets to control the pain. In this article, from the website of Dr. Najmeh Darnijad, an orthodontic specialist in Mashhad, we intend to examine the effect of naproxen tablets on toothache. Stay with us. **What is naproxen pill?** Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps relieve pain and reduce fever by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. This drug is not only used in the treatment of muscle and joint pain, but also prescribed to control toothache, gum pain and pain after oral surgery. Unlike antibiotics that directly fight infection, naproxen has only a soothing and anti-inflammatory role. ### **Effect of naproxen on toothache** When a tooth or gum becomes inflamed, one of the best options to reduce pain is to use anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen. This medicine can be effective in the following conditions: - Gingivitis caused by infection or orthodontic treatment. - **pain after tooth extraction** or oral surgery. - **pain caused by tooth decay** until visiting the dentist. - **Pain caused by the pressure of orthodontic brackets** in the early stages of treatment. **Read more" Click on the given link to get familiar with orthodontic pain reduction methods.** **Dosage and how to take naproxen during toothache** The dosage varies depending on the condition of the patient and the severity of the pain, but in general: - Adults: 250 to 500 mg every 12 hours. - Consumption of more than 1000 mg per day should only be under the supervision of a doctor. - It is better to take the medicine with food or milk to reduce digestive side effects. It is emphasized that arbitrary and long-term use of naproxen can be dangerous. ### **Advantages of naproxen compared to other painkillers** 1. **Longer effect:** Compared to ibuprofen, the soothing effect of naproxen lasts longer. 2. **High anti-inflammatory power:** It is suitable for reducing gum inflammation and pain after surgery. 3. **Possibility of use in more severe pain:** Doctors prefer naproxen in cases where acetaminophen or ibuprofen is not enough. **Read more" Getting to know the reasons for tooth numbness** ### **Naproxen side effects** Like all medications, naproxen may cause side effects, including: - Digestive problems such as heartburn, nausea or stomach ulcer. - Increased blood pressure in long-term use. - Headache and dizziness. - Possibility of kidney damage in continuous use and high dose. To prevent these side effects, it is better to take the drug only for a short time and under the supervision of a doctor. ### **Naproxen and orthodontic patients** Many orthodontic patients experience pain or pressure on their teeth in the early stages of treatment. In such cases, the orthodontist may suggest short-term use of naproxen or other anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain. Of course, it should be noted that taking too much medicine can negatively affect the process of teeth movement, because inflammation plays an important role in tooth movement. **drug interactions of naproxen** - ** Anticoagulants (such as warfarin): ** Increased risk of bleeding. - **Blood pressure medications:** may reduce their effect. - **Kidney or liver drugs:** simultaneous use can be dangerous. Therefore, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the drugs used. **Read more" Is tooth extraction dangerous during pregnancy?** ### **When should you not take naproxen?** - History of gastric ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding. - Patients with severe kidney or liver problems. - Pregnant women in the third trimester. - Heart patients with a history of stroke or uncontrolled blood pressure. ### **Naproxen alternatives for toothache** In cases where naproxen is not suitable, other drugs such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or even combination drugs can be prescribed by the doctor. Antibiotics such as Amoxicillin or Metronidazole may be needed to control the infection. #### **final word** Naproxen tablets are one of the most effective anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs to control toothache. This drug can play an effective role in reducing gum inflammation, orthodontic pain and post-surgery pain. However, its long-term or arbitrary use is dangerous and should be done under the supervision of a doctor. Consultation with a dentist or orthodontic specialist in Mashhad is the best way to choose the right medicine and prevent possible complications. Finally, naproxen is only a temporary solution for pain relief, and the main treatment for toothache is always to go to the dentist and fix the root cause of the problem. ###